Diets containing 1,500 calories a day are often effective for weight loss. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute reports 1,200- to 1,600-calorie weight-loss diets are appropriate for men and active women. Since carbs are your body’s main fuel source, meeting carbohydrate recommendations when following a 1,500-calorie diet will maximize your energy levels.

Total Carbohydrate Requirements

Your total carbohydrate needs are based on your calorie intake. The Institute of Medicine encourages children and adults to get 45 to 65 percent of their calories from carbohydrates. Since carbs provide 4 calories per gram, you’d need 169 to 244 grams of carbohydrates daily when following a 1,500-calorie meal plan.

Fiber Recommendations

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that isn’t completely digested or absorbed by your body, but helps fill you up. A review published in a 2009 edition of “Nutrition Reviews” reported high-fiber diets help reduce obesity and chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Authors of this review suggested children and adults eat 14 grams of fiber for each 1,000 calories they consume, or 21 grams per day when following a 1,500-calorie diet.

Added Sugars

Added sugars, like sucrose and high-fructose corn syrup, are carbohydrates that provide calories but few beneficial nutrients. Added sugars are found in sodas and sugary drinks, cookies, ice cream, candy, pies and other desserts. To maintain a healthy weight and avoid nutrient deficiencies, limit added sugars as much as possible. The American Heart Association recommends eating no more than half of your discretionary calories from added sugars. Your discretionary calorie allowance is 121 calories daily when eating 1,200- to 1,600-calorie diets, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010. Therefore, limit your added sugar intake to about 60 calories, or 15 grams of added sugar daily when following a 1,500-calorie meal plan.

About the Author

Erin Coleman is a registered and licensed dietitian. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics and has extensive experience working as a health writer and health educator. Her articles are published on various health, nutrition and fitness websites.

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